'It takes longer to fix a cup of coffee'

Pediatric dentist wins $10,000 in Find-a-Dentist sweepstakes

June 19, 2017

By Kimber Solana

Surprise: Dr. Jim Burchett (left) reacts as learns that he won the sweepstakes that encouraged ADA members to fill out their Find-a-Dentist online profile. Staff members from the ADA and the Greater St. Louis Dental Society surprised him with the announcement June 6. Nikki Sprehe, Greater St. Louis Dental Society communications and registration director, presented him with a giant check for $10,000.

O'Fallon, Mo. — The first thing that went through Dr. Jim Burchett's mind when he saw the balloons and oversize check for $10,000 was that it was a big joke set up by a friend.

"These things don't happen to me," Dr. Burchett said. "When it finally began to sink in, I knew it had to be a huge surprise blessing from God."

Dr. Burchett, a pediatric dentist, was selected in the sweepstakes that encouraged ADA members to fill out their Find-a-Dentist online profile by May 1. Staff members from the ADA and the Greater St. Louis Dental Society surprised him with the announcement in June. As winner, Dr. Burchett had a choice between a free one year lease of a Mercedes Benz C class sedan or a Mercedes Benz GLC sport utility vehicle for a year or to receive a cash reward of $10,000.

For Dr. Burchett, the choice wasn't easy.

"It's a good problem to have," said Dr. Burchett, who ultimately chose the cash.

Dr. Burchett was among 5,332 dentists who completed their profile by the deadline. His profile includes his photo, contact information, practice website, hours of operation, payment options and insurance information and practice description.

"We inspire, educate and assist the people in our community to optimize their children's oral health," Dr. Burchett said in his profile. "We take our time getting to know your child and create a safe, fun environment as we join your child on their dental journey.

On April 3, the ADA launched the Find-a-Dentist online search tool aimed to help prospective patients connect with local ADA members. The Association is encouraging ADA member dentists to fill out their Find-a-Dentist online profile, which takes five minutes, on average, to complete.

ADA member dentists with completed profiles, especially those with photos, are prioritized in the online tool's search results.

"Honestly, it takes longer to fix a cup of a coffee than it does to register," Dr. Burchett said. "People need to know where they can go to find great care. This is an important resource for ADA members to utilize — a great way to unite patients with dentists who care."

To update your Find-a-Dentist profile, log in to your MyADA page, ADA.org/MyADA, using your member ID number and password. For more information or assistance, contact the ADA Member Service Center. You can also view the video of the sweepstakes presentation here.